Remember those on the inside

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THIS IS not the first or second time that Tivoli Gardens has been in the news in a negative way and it probably won't be the last, unless we get to the heart of the problem.

It seems to me that we are expending considerable time and money in getting rid of the cobweb while the spider is left untouched.

The glaring social ills, broken justice system, and political tribalism must be addressed in earnest in order for us to be truly regarded as a civilised society.

With particular reference to Tivoli, it seems as if it is a state within a state, with its real leader, a cultic figure. In some regard, an entrenched system of inverted understanding governance and of life itself exists. Against this background, the operations of the security forces and, by extension, the Government, may be viewed as an evil force aimed at disrupting and dismantling a particular way of life.

Regardless of how happy we may be with the measures taken, for those who live in Tivoli and who believe in that system, the entire undertaking is very traumatic, confusing and could be seen as unjust. Consequently, there may be bitterness, revenge and deep-seated feelings of unforgiveness.

I, therefore, urge the authorities to immediately put in place measures for counselling and healing of the citizens so that those who feel displaced and dispossessed will not emerge tomorrow to cause even greater calamity. Let us not forget the lessons from Waco, Texas.

I am etc.,

Davewin Thomas

damasjm@yahoo.com

Montego Bay, St James